September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and this year brings a new and essential movement aimed at encouraging African American men to take control of their health. Spearheaded by civil rights icon Charles D. Neblett, Ph.D., the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge calls on Black men to share their experiences with prostate cancer and help dispel myths, foster dialogue, and improve health outcomes within the community.

Neblett, a survivor of Stage 4 metastatic prostate cancer, understands the disparities African American men face in the healthcare system. Through his family nonprofit, Community Projects, Inc., Neblett's mission is clear: dismantle the barriers that have kept Black men from receiving equitable healthcare and ensure their voices are heard. His son, Kwesi Neblett, has taken up the mantle and launched the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge  to ignite conversations on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Why the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge Matters

Black men are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer, with 1 in 6 Black men diagnosed compared to 1 in 8 white men, and their mortality rate is twice as high. This initiative is crucial in highlighting how social, genetic, and healthcare factors uniquely impact African American men. By participating in the challenge, men can share their personal stories, encourage others to get screened, and shed light on the importance of personalized care and awareness.

"The challenge gives Black men battling prostate cancer the platform to share their concerns and offer their own perspectives," says Kwesi Neblett. "It’s about creating a space where their voices are heard and respected, especially when it comes to treatment options and equity in healthcare."

Charles D Neblett

 

 Myth-Busting: Dispelling Common Prostate Cancer Misconceptions

One of the main goals of the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge is to break down long-standing myths about prostate cancer, particularly those affecting African American men:

1. Myth: Prostate cancer affects all races equally.  

   Fact: Black men have a higher likelihood of developing prostate cancer, with unique genetic factors that make the disease more aggressive. Seven out of nine newly discovered genetic variants are specific to Black men.

2. Myth: No symptoms mean no cancer.  

   Fact: Prostate cancer in Black men is often diagnosed at later stages, and the absence of symptoms doesn’t mean the disease isn’t progressing. Regular screenings are critical, especially for those with a family history.

3.Myth: All hospitals provide the same level of care.  

   Fact: Not all hospitals have access to advanced radiation therapy equipment, which is crucial for effective treatment. Men should ask about the quality of the machines used and advocate for cutting-edge care.

4. Myth: There’s only one best treatment for prostate cancer.  

  Fact: Prostate cancer treatment must be personalized, taking into account individual genetics, health history, and lifestyle. "Shared decision-making" between the patient and doctor is key.

5. Myth: Early screening always prevents prostate cancer.  

   Fact: While early detection is crucial, Black men often experience false positives. Personalized care and proper monitoring are essential to ensure the best outcomes.

6. Myth: Faith and spirituality have no role in cancer treatment.  

  Fact: Many prostate cancer survivors find strength and focus through spirituality, which helps them prioritize what’s truly important in their lives.

7. Myth: Medicare covers all cancer treatments.  

   Fact: The annual cost of Stage 4 prostate cancer treatment exceeds $93,000, and Medicare often falls short in covering holistic and alternative treatments. Patients should be aware of financial planning and alternative treatment options.

Elevating Voices Through Expert Guidance

To ensure Black men receive the best guidance, the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge panel includes prominent leaders like:

-Charles D. Neblett, Ph.D., Founder, Community Projects, Inc.

- Kwesi Neblett, President of Community Projects, Inc.

- Dr. Lisa Cooper, Internal Medicine MD, Johns Hopkins

- Dr. Otis Brawley, Oncologist, Johns Hopkins

- Dr. Clayton Yates, Ph.D., Clinical Research Specialist in Prostate Cancer

- Dr. Naysha Isom, MD, Holistic Healthcare Provider

- Doug Davis, Community Activist

These experts are dedicated to guiding Black men through their prostate cancer journeys by offering insights into personalized treatments, health disparities, and alternative therapies.

The Call for Health Equity

Dr. Lisa Cooper, a nationally recognized expert in health disparities, emphasizes that "health disparities are everyone’s problem." The disproportionate number of Black men affected by prostate cancer stems from systemic inequalities, including limited access to quality healthcare, fewer economic resources, and a lack of comprehensive insurance coverage.

Despite the Affordable Care Act expanding healthcare access, many cancer centers are reluctant to treat Medicare patients due to frequent claim denials. This reality makes many Black men vulnerable to higher medical costs, especially for cutting-edge treatments. Envita Medical Cancer Center in Phoenix, for instance, focuses on integrative therapies but doesn’t accept Medicare, highlighting the critical gap in affordable care.

Looking Ahead: New Research and Clinical Trials

A promising clinical trial at the University of Illinois at Chicago is currently investigating the potential benefits of a compound derived from licorice root in treating prostate cancer. This trial represents a step toward discovering more affordable and accessible treatment options, especially for Black men who often face disparities in cancer care.

Join the Challenge: Empowerment Through Awareness

The #BlackProstateCheckChallenge  is more than a social media movement—it’s an urgent call to action for African American men to take charge of their health and encourage others to do the same. By participating, men can help raise awareness, share crucial information, and advocate for equitable treatment options.

This September, take the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge  and join the fight to save Black lives through knowledge, prevention, and community support. Your voice matters, and together, we can change the course of prostate cancer for African American men.

Social Media:

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Charles D. Neblett on Facebook

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Charles D. Neblett, Ph.D., on LinkedIn

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